GOB Chemistry Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to GOB Chemistry

This course provides a foundational understanding of General, Organic, and Biochemistry (GOB) concepts, tailored for students pursuing health and life sciences. The syllabus outlines the main topics, learning outcomes, and course policies essential for success in GOB Chemistry.

• Instructor: Dr. Poonam Narula

• Class Sessions: Wednesdays, 5:15 pm - 6:15 pm

• Lab Sessions: Wednesdays, 6:30 pm - 9:40 pm

• Office Hours: Wednesdays, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (Online via Zoom)

Course Description

Scope and Objectives

This course covers the basic concepts of General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry. Students will learn about the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, and the chemistry of biological molecules. The course is designed for students who need a background in chemistry for health-related programs.

• Prerequisite: Advanced algebra (Math 151 or equivalent)

Student Learning Outcomes

Key Competencies

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Perform calculations involving pH, conversions, density, concentrations, dilutions, and percentages.

2. Use the Periodic Table of Elements to predict physical and chemical properties of elements and compounds.

3. Analyze and apply concepts of biological and physical science obtained through the scientific method, such as thermodynamics, reaction mechanisms, and molecular interactions.

4. Demonstrate understanding of laboratory techniques, including making solutions, dilutions, and performing chromatography and filtration.

5. Recognize and draw functional groups found in organic chemistry: alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, ethers, amines, amides, and aromatic rings.

6. Identify the structures of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, and nucleic acids and their roles in living cells.

7. Analyze the role of ATP in the metabolism of a cell, including the major catabolic pathways in the production of ATP and calculations of ATP yield.

Course Materials

Required Texts and Resources

• Textbook: Introduction to General, Organic, & Biological Chemistry, 13th ed., Karen Timberlake

• Lab Manual: Karen Timberlake, Custom, 2018

• Scientific Calculator (non-programmable)

• Goggles and Lab Coat

• Periodic Table (can be printed from Canvas)

Grading Scheme

Assessment Breakdown

Grades are determined by the accumulation of points according to the following table:

Topic	% of Final Grade	Notes
Homework	20%	Miss more than two HW = F
Exams & Quizzes	50%	Miss more than one exam or quiz = F; no make-ups given
Final Exam	10%	Miss final exam = F; no make-ups given
Lab Reports	5%	Miss more than two lab = F
Lab Exam	15%	Miss lab exam = F; no make-ups given
TOTAL	100%

Grade outcomes are as follows:

Grade	Outcome
90-100	A
80-89	B
70-79	C
60-69	D
Less than 60	F
Miss more than two HW	F
Miss more than one exam	F
Miss final exam	F
Miss more than two labs	F

Lecture Topics

Main Chapters Covered

• Chapter 1: Chemistry in Our Lives

• Chapter 2: Chemistry and Measurements

• Chapter 3: Matter/Energy

• Chapter 4: Elements/Atoms

• Chapter 6: Ionic and Molecular Compounds

• Chapter 7: Chemical Quantities/Reactions

• Chapter 9: Solutions

• Chapter 10: Acids and Bases

• Chapter 11: Introduction to Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons

• Chapter 12: Alcohols, Thiols, Ethers, Aldehydes and Ketones

• Chapter 13: Carbohydrates

• Chapter 14: Carboxylic Acids, Esters, Amines and Amides

• Chapter 15: Lipids

• Chapter 16: Proteins

• Chapter 17: Nucleic Acids

• Chapter 18: Metabolism

Key Concepts and Definitions

General Chemistry

• Matter: Anything that has mass and occupies space.

• Element: A pure substance consisting of only one type of atom.

• Compound: A substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded.

• Atom: The smallest unit of an element that retains its chemical properties.

• Molecule: Two or more atoms bonded together.

• Chemical Reaction: A process in which substances (reactants) are transformed into new substances (products).

• Solution: A homogeneous mixture of two or more substances.

• Acid: A substance that donates protons ($H^+$) in solution.

• Base: A substance that accepts protons ($H^+$) or donates hydroxide ions ($OH^-$).

Organic Chemistry

• Hydrocarbons: Organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon.

• Functional Groups: Specific groups of atoms within molecules that determine the chemical properties of those molecules (e.g., alcohols, ethers, amines).

• Isomers: Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements.

Biochemistry

• Carbohydrates: Organic molecules consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen; primary energy source for cells.

• Lipids: Hydrophobic molecules including fats, oils, and steroids; important for cell membranes and energy storage.

• Proteins: Polymers of amino acids; perform structural, enzymatic, and regulatory functions in cells.

• Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA; store and transmit genetic information.

• ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): The primary energy carrier in cells.

Important Formulas and Equations

Chemistry Calculations

• Density: $\text{Density} = \frac{\text{Mass}}{\text{Volume}}$

• Molarity: $M = \frac{\text{moles of solute}}{\text{liters of solution}}$

• Percent Composition: $\%\,\text{Composition} = \frac{\text{mass of component}}{\text{total mass}} \times 100$

• pH Calculation: $\text{pH} = -\log[H^+]$

• Energy Change: $q = m \cdot c \cdot \Delta T$

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is required for all lectures and labs.

• Missing more than two homeworks, one exam, or two labs results in a failing grade.

• Cell phones must be turned off during class and labs.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited.

• Lockdown browser required for online exams and quizzes.

Disability Services

• Accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

Schedule Overview

Sample Weekly Topics

• Week 1: Laboratory Safety, Measurement, and Scientific Figures

• Week 2: Electron Configuration and Periodic Table

• Week 3: Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry

• Week 4: Solutions, Acids, and Bases

• Week 5: Organic Chemistry and Functional Groups

• Week 6: Biochemistry – Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids, Metabolism

Additional info: The syllabus also includes policies on withdrawal, grading, and student conduct, as well as a detailed schedule of lab and lecture activities. For full details, refer to the official course syllabus document.